John D. Shortencarier
1939- 2001
TODAY

Outside my window a new day I see
and only I can determine
what kind of day it will be.

It can be busy and sunny, laughing and gay,
or boring and cold, unhappy and grey.

My own state of mind is the determining key,
for I am a person I let myself be.

I can be thoughtful and do all I can to help,
or be selfish and think only of myself.

I can enjoy what I do and make it seem fun,
or gripe and complain and make it hard on someone.

I can be patient with those who may not understand
or belittle or hurt those as much as I can.

But I have faith in myself and I believe what I say
and I personally intend to make the best of each day.

Choice not Chance Determines Destiny
Shortie:
Always loving, Always loved.
Share a Shortie Memory
Shortie's Obituary
Readers' Turn to Write
A gentle, gentle GentleMAN
by Mark J. Dibble, OCT Founder

A sweet and gentle friend has moved on recently.  John Shortencarier of Olean has graced so many of our lives over the years ... whether it was as an educator, a driving force behind the AIDS Taskforce, theatrical designer or friend, John has been an important influence (although he would be the first to discount that characterization) in the Southern Tier for many, many years.  

This multiple award winning designer made so many local shows come alive with vibrance and panache, patience and humor, love and class, that his recent passing has left a huge void for so many of us.  But his spirit and soul has left us better for having known him.

Watch the colors of the coming fall or the clouds in a peaceful evening sky.  We know that God does not need the help, but having John available, even if it means using columns and cubes, He will gladly have John share his beauty for an even larger audience.

We Love You John.
Ain't No Sunshine
music by Bill Withers
performed by Eva Cassidy
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